TCA (Tricyclic
Antidepressants)
These drugs are typically used for the treatment of depression type
disorders. Overdoses can produce central nervous system depression
and heart disorders. Tricyclic antidepressants are the most common
cause of death from prescription drugs. These medications are taken
orally and sometimes by injection. Some names for drugs which are
tricyclic antidepressants are: amitriptyline (Elavil), desipramine (Norpramin),
imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor) and protriptyline (Vivactil).

MTD (Methadone)
Methadone is used for treatment of moderate to severe pain and for
opiate dependence of such drugs as heroin, Vicodin, Percocet and
morphine. This drug is a narcotic analgesic and in most States a
person must go to a pain clinic or methadone maintenance clinic for
this prescription. This is a long-acting pain reliever which lasts
from approximately 12 to 48 hours after ingestion. The withdrawal
from methadone is more prolonged than that of heroin. Some other
terms for methadone are: Amidone, burdock, dollies, jungle juice,
junk, dolls, mud, phyamps, red rock, tootsie roll, fizzies,
balloons, breaze, buzz bomb, and cartridges.

BAR
(Barbiturates)
These drugs are central nervous system depressants. They are
typically used as sedatives, hypnotics and anticonvulsants. The
usual method of ingestion is by oral capsules or tablets. The
symptoms seen when someone is taking these drugs looks like those of
being intoxicated with alcohol. Chronic use of barbiturates will
lead to physical dependence and higher levels of tolerance. There
are short-acting barbiturates such as Secobarbital (Seconal) which
when taken for 2 to 3 months can produce physical dependence. There
are also long-acting barbiturates such as Phenobarbital (Nembutal
and Luminal). Some other terms for barbiturates are: Amobabital (Amytal),
Yellow Jackets, Reds, Blues, Amy's, and Rainbows.

BZO
(Benzodiazepines)
Sedative-hypnotics are Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants and
are a category of drugs that slow normal brain function. There are
numerous CNS depressants; most act on the brain by affecting the
neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Neurotransmitters
are brain chemicals that facilitate communication between brain
cells. GABA works by decreasing brain activity. Although the
different classes of CNS depressants work in unique ways, ultimately
it is through their ability to increase GABA activity that they
produce a drowsy or calming effect that is beneficial to those
suffering from anxiety or sleep disorders.

PCP
(Phencyclidine)
This drug interrupts the functions of the neocortex, the part of the
brain which controls intellect and instinct. The drug also blocks
pain receptors which could cause violent PCP episodes resulting in
self-inflicted injuries. PCP effects vary, but most frequently there
is a sense of distance and estrangement. Time and body movements
slow down and muscular coordination worsens along with the senses
being dulled. Speech is blocked and incoherent. After chronic use
there is paranoid and violent behavior along with hallucinations.
Large doses of this drug could produce convulsions, coma, as well as
heart and lung failure. This drug is a hallucinogen.

OPI (Morphine
and Heroin)
This drug is also a stimulant and has similar effects as
methamphetamine (ecstasy). Terms for this drug are: white stuff,
miss emma, monkey, "M". The form is usually white crystals,
hypodermic tablets or injectable solutions. Ingestion can be either
orally, smoked or through injection.

AMP (Amphetamine)
Amphetamines are substances taken to boost energy, mood and
confidence, as well as to suppress appetite(Amphetamine is a
collective term given to amphetamines, dextroamphetamines and
methamphetamines, all of which act similarly in the body. Out of
these, methamphetamines are the strongest. (In the 1930s, they were
used in nasal decongestants and to treat narcolepsy, ADHD and
minimal brain dysfunction.)

M-AMP
(Methamphetamine/Speed/Ecstasy)
This drug is a stimulant and can cause an increase in heart and
respiratory rates, along with elevated blood pressure, dilated
pupils and decrease in appetite. Users may also experience sweating,
headache, blurred vision, dizziness, sleeplessness and anxiety. Very
high doses can cause rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, loss of
coordination and physical collapse. When used in injection form
there is a sudden increase in blood pressure that can result in
stroke, very high fever or heart failure. Users of this drug report
feeling restless, anxious and have mood swings. With increased doses
comes increased effects. Users, over a long period of time, can
develop an amphetamine psychosis which could include hallucinations,
delusions and paranoia.

COC
(Cocaine)
This drug has similar effects of alcohol. If taken in small amounts
it can produce a calm state and relaxed muscles. Larger doses can
cause a slurring of speech, staggered gait and an altered
perception. Very large doses can cause a decrease in respirations,
coma or death. When in combination, alcohol and depressants can
multiply the effects of both which would increase risk. Some terms
for this drug are: bump, coke, snow, candy, toot and flake C. It can
be ingested by snorting, smoking, injection or oral consumption. The
substance is a white crystalline powder usually mixed with other
substances such as corn starch, powdered milk, sugars or flour.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol/Marijuana)
This drug can be either a stimulant or a sedative depending on the
strain used. It is either smoked or eaten and causes a feeling of
being "high" for several hours after use. Several regularly observed
physical effects are an increase in heart rate, bloodshot eyes, dry
mouth, dry throat and increase in appetite. Use of this drug may
decrease short-term memory and comprehension, alter the sense of
time and reduce ability to perform certain tasks such as driving a
car. This drug can also produce paranoia and psychosis. Some terms
for this drug are: marijuana, weed, grass, pot, reefer, joint,
roach, mary jane, maui wowie, loco weed.